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Battling the Back-to-School Blahs

Now that my daughters are older, starting school is less challenging time and energy wise. But for those of you who still have younger children, August can be a stressful and depleting month. Here are some recommendations from Lisa Salazar, a therapist and mom of two teens and a toddler, who’s found that organization and routine is key to decreasing stress and maintain a healthy balance in at home.

Schedule family time: Allow your children to help plan a weekly family night. An example is renting videos and watching them at home with favorite movie snacks to enjoy. During family night, rules should be established, such as no texting or taking phone calls.

Choose chores: Because everyone’s schedules are busier now, it is helpful to have a family meeting where everyone can decide which chores they will be responsible for.

Homework: By providing your children a calendar and having one for yourself, both of you can jot down any special dates and scheduled tests. Staying organized is the key to a successful school year!

Observe child’s behavior: Be mindful of any changes in behavior, sleep, and eating behaviors.

Offer support and solutions: Be your child’s strongest advocate. Reach out to teacher s and counselors to help you and your child.

Listen: Use car rides home and dinner time to talk with your child.

Real Mom Lisa

Today’s guest author is Lisa Salazar, MA, LMFT, LPC who is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She has been married for 18 years and has 3 children. Books in the Burbs is a blog that Lisa maintains to write book reviews.